When we were little, we looked up to our grandmothers who, with a calm smooth motion, moved the needles, bringing the Singer to life. Our mothers already owned the convenience of an electric sewing machine. We had almost forgotten how to sew. But recently, I had a pleasant surprise. I needed to buy fabric for a curtain, and the sales lady was very helpful and gave me the perfect tip on a website where I can find lots of sewing advice and inspiration. I should point out that I have been afraid of sewing machines for three decades and would never have thought to sit down at one. Without much interest, I sat down at the computer, looked up the proper address and stared open-mouthed. There is also a Facebook group that is very active and if you don\’t know what to do, there is always someone to help you.
But where do you start?
- Choosing a sewing machine
If you don\’t own a sewing machine, before you buy one, try to borrow one. Today\’s suitcase machines are easy to carry and surely someone in the family or neighbourhood owns one. It\’s not exactly a small investment, and you may not be thrilled and the initial enthusiasm will quickly fade. If you decide to buy one, you need to decide what type. Basically, you have two choices. The first possible purchase might be a conventional sewing machine that you can use to do everyday things. For experienced, enthusiastic home sewers, an overlocker comes into consideration, which will make a lot of work easier, but will cost you more money.
- Share
If you\’re an amateur, self-taught sewer, take our advice. You\’ll have a good laugh with your girlfriends. Host sewing nights. They\’ll give you advice. Find groups on social media. If you have a problem, they\’ll give you advice. You may even discover a sewing school that works on the principle of an online seminar, where they explain the basics and, over time, you work your way through the intricacies. Don\’t be sceptical. I tried it out myself and was pleasantly surprised at how well crafted they are, and judging by the videos I was able to sew my first pieces.
- You learn by making mistakes
No scholar has fallen from the sky. Prepare for the beginning to be difficult. You\’ll fumble, you\’ll swear, and you might even stop for a while and clean up your sewing machine. Everyone\’s been there. You have to work your way up to sewing.
- Prepare your wallet
If you think sewing will save you money, you\’re wrong. A visit to a haberdashery, a fabric shop will air out your wallet. But think about the fact that you\’re sewing an original that no one else has.